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The Coca-Cola Company has announced that its board member, Herbert A Allen, has retired as a director after 39 years of service.  Allen, who is 80-years-old, was the longest-serving current member of the company's board of directors. He stepped down on 18 August, leaving 11 directors on the board.  “On behalf of The Coca-Cola Company and its board of directors, I thank Herbert for his service,” said James Quincey, chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company.

He added: “Herbert joined the board in 1982. Throughout the years, his counsel and sound judgment have guided company leadership through many evolutions. His positive impact on Coca-Cola will last far beyond his tenure on the board. We wish him all the best in the next chapter.” “The greatest part of serving as a director has been meeting and getting to know a wide variety of people in the company,” Allen said. “Whether bottlers, Coke employees, officers or company directors, virtually everyone has been part of an enriching experience. As a shareowner, I extend my appreciation and gratitude to all of you.” Allen joined the board back when the company was led by Roberto Goizueta (chairman and CEO). He went on to work with five other chairmen of the company, most recently Quincey.